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Nursing schools cannot accommodate the number of applicants that apply to their programs, explains the American Association of Colleges of Nursing. As a result, many people are turned away and will either need to reapply the next academic year or pursue another career path. Each school has specific application requirements, but if you know the general factors that may impact your acceptance, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses to present yourself in a positive manner.

College Coursework

Nursing programs will require you to complete certain college courses prior to entering a nursing program. These prerequisites vary, but generally include science, math and writing courses. Although programs do not require you to receive perfect grades in these classes, the competitive application process may encourage you to work hard in these classes to achieve the best grade for your ability. During the application process, reviewers may also evaluate your overall grade point average to help determine who may be most successful with nursing school coursework. If your GPA is low, you may want to continue taking classes to improve it before applying.

Experience

Application reviewers may also look at your work experience and background to help determine acceptance to the program. You do not need to have experience in the medical field, but applicants who have worked in health care may show more of a commitment to a career in nursing. If you do not have health care work experience, you may consider volunteering at a local hospital or clinic.

Application Materials

Each nursing program will require application materials. This may include a questionnaire and one or more essays designed to learn more about you and your goals. The essay will also help reviewers determine your communication skills, an important proficiency in the nursing field. A well-written essay that allows the reviewer to see how important a nursing degree is to your future may help win you a spot in the program.

Be Neat and Complete

Reviewers will be reading through a number of applications and will take notice of a neat, well-written packet. Make sure you follow the directions about what to include when you apply and any required order for your materials. Reviewers may be looking for applicants who can follow directions and do so in a clear, legible manner, and making sure your application is well put together may help increase your chances of getting into a nursing program.

About the Author

Kate Beck started writing for online publications in 2005. She worked as a certified ophthalmic technician for 10 years before returning to school to earn a Masters of Fine Arts degree in writing. Beck is currently putting the finishing touches on a novel.